Enterprise Value Enhancement – Chinese M&A Investment in Germany

Is China taking over Germany? China was the biggest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Germany in 2015 and 2016 and the number and size of deals are climbing steadily. So far, coverage of this topic by the German media has mainly dealt with the motivation for these M&As and their influence on Germany’s labor market as well as the potential erosion of national sovereignty. Few have looked in detail into the subsequent development of these companies, particularly the integration process and post-acquisition growth trajectories. Although information on this topic has been severely lacking, this study provides substantial answers to questions such as these. While it is too early to judge the long-term success of the most recent acquisitions, such as those of Kuka by Medea and KraussMaffei by China National Chemical Corporation, the three in-depth case studies featured in the book provide a well-grounded evaluation. Hermann Simon, author of “Hidden Champions” says: “The case studies in this study are first rate. I would even go so far as to say that they are on par with Harvard Business School cases.”